2. Prep the Croissants
Slice mini croissants horizontally with a serrated knife—just deep enough to open, not separate completely (like a book). Gently hollow out a small amount of interior crumb (save for breadcrumbs!) to prevent sogginess and create space for filling.
3. Assemble with Care
Spoon ½ cup filling into each croissant—mounding slightly. Press gently to settle, but avoid compacting.
Optional: Brush croissant tops lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving for extra sheen and crunch.
4. Serve Immediately—or Smartly
Best served within 2 hours of assembly to preserve croissant crispness.
For events: fill croissants on-site or keep components separate and assemble just before serving.
Tips for Perfect Gravy
(Note: These are intentionally un-sauced—but for a herb-infused drizzle, blend 2 Tbsp mayo + 1 tsp lemon zest + 1 tsp chopped chives. Drizzle over plated sandwiches.)
Serving Suggestions
On vintage china with cornichons and radishes
Paired with sparkling rosé or crisp iced green tea
With a side of mixed greens dressed in tarragon vinaigrette
For brunch: serve with fresh berries and a dollop of crème fraîche
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Chicken salad only keeps airtight 3 days.
Unfilled croissants freeze well—thaw 30 min before use.
Do not assemble ahead—croissants soften quickly. Prep filling and croissants separately; combine just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken?
Not recommended—it’s often rubbery and oversalted. Rotisserie or poached is best.
No mini croissants?
Use regular croissants and cut into thirds, or substitute brioche buns.
Make it lighter?
Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt—but add ¼ tsp xanthan gum to prevent weeping.
Allergy Information
Contains: Eggs, dairy, wheat.
Nut-free, soy-free (check mayo label), fish/shellfish-free.
Gluten-free option: Use GF croissants (like Schär) and ensure mayo is GF.
Nutrition Facts
(Per sandwich)
Calories: 480 | Protein: 24g | Fat: 28g (sat 8g) | Carbs: 32g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 620mg
Final Thought
There’s poetry in proportion—the way a small croissant cradles just enough filling to satisfy, not overwhelm. These sandwiches aren’t about abundance. They’re about attention: to texture, to balance, to the quiet joy of something made with care. So slice the celery fine, chill the salad patiently, and fill each golden shell with intention. Because sometimes, the most memorable meals aren’t grand feasts.
They’re six perfect bites—shared slowly, savored fully, and remembered long after the last crumb is gone.
